Robert R. "Bob" Bates, 78, of Fort Wayne, passed away Monday, Dec. 26, 2011 at Vibra Hospital. Born Nov. 29, 1933 in Fort Wayne, he was a US Army Veteran. He retired from International Harvester after 25+ years. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church and American Legion Post 241. Surviving are his wife of 54 years, Dolores M. Bates, of Fort Wayne; four sons, Steven (Suzanne Holt) Bates, of Germany, Daniel Bates, John (Ruth) Bates and Brian Bates, all of Fort Wayne; and three grandchildren, Spencer, Chelsea and Clarissa. Funeral Service is 10:00 am Friday, Dec. 30, 2011 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1636 St. Mary's Ave. with calling one hour prior. Visitation is 2-4 and 6-8 pm Thursday at Klaehn, Fahl and Melton, Winchester Rd. Chapel, 6424 Winchester Rd. Burial in Concordia Cemetery Gardens. Preferred memorials to Trinity Lutheran Church or Worship for Shut-ins. www.klaehnfahlmeltonfunerals.com
